Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle is one of Ireland’s top visitor attractions. Situated just off Dame Street, the castle is a right in the heart of Dublin city centre. Stop by Dublin Castle during your visit to Ireland and see the former seat of the British Government in Ireland, the stunning castle grounds and the Chapel Royal.

Dublin Castle was constructed on the elevated ground that was once occupied by an earlier Viking settlement. From 1204 until 1922, Dublin Castle served principally as a residence for the British monarch’s Irish representative. In 1604, a major fire broke out causing severe damage to much of the building. The seventeenth and eighteenth centuries were spent rebuilding the Castle into a beautiful Georgian palace. Today, the Castle spans 11 acres and consists of 2 museums, 2 cafés, an international conference centre, 2 gardens, Government Buildings and the State Apartments.

Over the centuries, Dublin Castle has been a host to many famous figures. Amongst those are Benjamin Franklin, Queen Victoria, Charles Dickens, John F. Kennedy, Nelson Mandela, and Queen Elizabeth II. Today, over a quarter of a million people visit the Castle each year.

The grounds of the site are free to explore, however, if you wish to take a tour of the State Apartments you must purchase a ticket. Tours can either be guided or self-guided. Self-guided tours allow you to move throughout the rooms at your own pace, however, the Viking Excavation and Chapel Royal can only be accessed as part of a guided tour. A guided tour will last around 70 minutes. Tickets can only be purchased onsite from the Apartments in the Upper Castle Yard.

If you get hungry during your visit, you can stop by the Terrace Cafe on the ground floor of the State Apartments. You can relax with some coffee and lunch with a view of the Castle's gardens.

Dublin Castle is host to different exhibitions and events throughout the year, so make sure to check out what's on before your visit.

The Beacon Hotel is located a 25-minute drive away from Dublin Castle. Alternatively, the journey can be done by Luas in around 40 minutes or just over 50 minutes by bus. If you are already in Dublin city centre, Dublin Castle is within walking distance from many of the city’s other popular attractions.

The Beacon will serve as the perfect base for you during your visit to Ireland, allowing you to easily explore the beautiful attractions both outside and within the city centre. Some of the most beautiful gardens, incredible houses and mansions, and quaint seaside towns are not far away from The Beacon. With our secure underground car-parking facilities, travelling to and from the city centre couldn't be more convenient.

The Beacon Hotel has stylish rooms and an exquisite interior that is sure to make your break a hit. For more recommendations on what to do and see during your visit to Dublin, visit our Top Dublin Attractions and Top Local Attractions pages. Be sure to check out our special offers and book your stay today.